Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Elite Pro review

What you need to know

Reviewed by: Nathaniel Wilkins

Reviewed on: 22 August 2005

Tags: Creative, Creative, Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Elite Pro, Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Elite Pro, ports

We like:

Improves the quality of MP3 and CD audio; better software organisation; 7.1-channel, 24-bit/96KHz output; extensive external device connectivity

We don't like:

Noticeable latency between remote and receiver; no FireWire or USB 2.0 ports; software still needs streamlining; pricey

You might also need:

PC with available PCI slot; multimedia speaker system with up to 7.1 channels

CNET UK judgement:

Creative's new X-Fi processor makes the X-Fi Elite Pro the most advanced and priciest Sound Blaster ever

Full review:

Creative stays on top of the sound card game by regularly updating its Sound Blaster cards with ever more sophisticated features. Its latest, the 7.1-channel Sound Blaster X-Fi Elite Pro, incorporates Creative's next-generation Xtreme Fidelity (X-Fi) audio chip to deliver better-sounding audio than any other consumer sound card to date. A key element of the X-Fi feature set is its 24-bit Crystalizer, a digital technique by which the X-Fi chip can improve the quality of your digital music. Creative also adds a software-based usage mode selector, a sophisticated external I/O box and a fancy new remote control. The X-Fi Elite Pro can call itself the new gold standard for hard-core gamers and PC audio enthusiasts, although it's also the priciest Sound Blaster yet. Continue Reading...